It was a moment of uncertainty for the little one named Kuchez, which translates to “Play” in Swahili.
The team at Sedwick County Zoo in Wichita, Kansas, were on the edge of their seats, unsure if the newborn chimpanzee would survive.
But, against all odds, Kuchez pulled through, and now, the zoo staff are joyfully calling it a miracle.
The journey began with zookeeper Devin Turner, who was there from the start, witnessing Mahale, the mother chimpanzee, in labor.
He stayed by her side as the hours ticked by.
However, as complications arose and Mahale’s labor stalled, the situation took a critical turn.
An emergency C-section was necessary, and Turner had the honor of being the first to hold little Kuchez after his birth.
But the challenges were far from over.
Kuchez struggled with breathing difficulties, necessitating round-the-clock care from the devoted zookeepers.
They stayed with him throughout the night, providing vital oxygen treatments and bottle feedings.
Their tireless efforts paid off, and soon, they were confident that Kuchez would make it.
“So, on Tuesday, the fact that we were able to have a live baby and to watch Mahale on Thursday show that joy.
That is why we do what we do,” the zoo staff reflected on the rewarding experience.
It was a testament to their dedication and love for these animals.
This birth was particularly poignant, as the last chimpanzee pregnancy at the zoo in 2019 had ended in a stillbirth.
Mahale had been separated from her baby for about two days, and the zoo captured the heartwarming moment of their reunion on video.
The video is a touching display of maternal love.
Mahale enters the enclosure, clutching her blanket, and spots a small bundle on a cushion.
Initially, she shows no reaction, but as soon as she sees her baby move, she rushes over, scooping Kuchez into her arms with overwhelming affection.
The sight of her whimpering and tenderly caressing her baby is incredibly moving, capturing the raw emotions of a mother reunited with her child.
The impact of this video was immense, touching the hearts of over 16 million viewers.
“Oh my goodness!! Sobbing!! The way she sees that little hand and rushes to hold her baby!! So beautiful!! Thank you for sharing,” one viewer commented, clearly moved by the scene.
Another shared, “OMG!! I am sitting here up at my desk in tears!!! My heart just melted,” reflecting the emotional response the video evoked in many.
The successful outcome of this challenging situation is proof of the skill and dedication of the veterinarians and zoo staff.
“Drs. Laura Whisler and Janna Chibry of College Hill OB-GYN were on hand to perform the cesarean section with the zoo’s veterinary team,” the zoo acknowledged, highlighting the collaborative effort that went into saving Kuchez’s life.
This team had been instrumental in great ape pregnancies at the zoo for over a decade, including the delivery of a Sumatran Orangutan named Lily in 2018.
The story of Kuchez’s birth and Mahale’s touching reunion with her baby is a beautiful reminder of the bond between mother and child, transcending species.
The zoo invites everyone to witness this heartwarming moment in the video below, showcasing the incredible journey of survival and love.
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